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Today we have another random two player day, as it is a pair of walk-ons looking to make an impact.
Zac Collins - So.
Louisville, KY (St. Xavier HS)
6’, 195 pounds
Kicker
2019 Projection: Reserve at kicker
There could be a role for Collins this year if things go a little haywire for Purdue. Collins has been with the team for two seasons now, redshirting in 2017 and sitting out last year because there are rarely calls for more than one kicker, let alone two. With Spencer Evans gone, however, the show is there for J.D. Dellinger. If Dellinger struggles, Collins could be called on to kick.
In high school Collins was a Prokicker.com High School All-American and one of the best kickers in all of Kentucky. He also punted, so there is a chance he could get a look to replace Joe Schopper. Collins was invited to the National Top Prospect kicking camp and was a solid player for his school.
Brennan Thieneman - Jr.
Noblesville, IN (Guerin Catholic HS)
6’1”, 200 pounds
Safety
2019 Projection: Contributor on Special Teams and at Safety
Brennan is the younger brother of Jacob Thieneman, who moved from little recruited walk-on to two year starter and institution in the secondary he past two seasons. We have seen a little of what Brennan can do as he filled in for his brother last season when Jacob was down with a staph infection. He was an Academic All-Big Ten selection last season and started three games while playing in all 13. He also played in 11 games as a redshirt freshman in 2017. He had 33 tackles and broke up three passes last season.
Purdue has recruited some big time safety prospects for this coming season, but Brennan provides experienced depth and may hold on to his starting role for a while. His best game came against Indiana where he had nine tackles last season.